Throughout this Lenten season, we have talked about very specific ways to pray, fast and give alms, whether a 15-minute prayer structure, ways to read Scripture or volunteer ideas. This week, try something entirely different. Fast from time.

We schedule our lives and try to fit in so many activities and people into the day. So take off the watch and silence the phone (and do not look at it) before sitting with the Lord in prayer or spending the afternoon with someone. Focus on God. Focus on that person. Not you. Not what comes next. Not the to-do list. (Note: This could be slightly disastrous on a workday, so it is most likely best to save this for Saturday.)

Pope Francis told parents to “waste time” with their children, emphasizing the importance of the “free gift” of time. The same holds true in our other relationships. Give the gift of time.

Each week during Lent I am sharing a quick tip on each of the three disciplines of the season: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. So tune in throughout the week for more ideas! This is the last week of Lent before Holy Week. I pray you make it count.